Method of making photoelectric conversion device

ABSTRACT

A manufacturing method of a photoelectric conversion device which comprises a plurality n of semiconductor elements U 1  to U n  formed on a substrate side by side and connected in series one after another. On the substrate a first conductive layer is formed and then, it is subjected to first laser beam scanning to form groove G 1  to G n-1  and first electrode E 1  to E n  respectively separated by the grooves G 1  to G n-1 . Next, on the substrate a N (or P) -I- P (or N) type non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member is formed to cover the grooves G 1  to G n-1  and the electrodes E 1  to E n  and then, the laminate member is subjected to second laser beam scanning to form grooves O 1  to O n-1  respectively extending into the first electrodes E 1  to E n-1  and N (or P) -I- P (or N) type non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q 1  to Q n . Next, a second conductive layer is formed to continuously extend on the laminate member Q 1  to Q n  and extends into the grooves Q 1  to Q n-1  and then, the second conductive layer is subjected to the third laser beam scanning to form isolating portions H 1  to H n-1  and electrodes F 1  to F n  respectively connected to the first electrodes E 1  to E n-1  through the coupling portions K 1  to K n-1 . The second and/or third laser beam scanning steps are followed by an etch using a gas such as hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride, or a Freon gas, or a liquid such as hydro fluoric acid, hydrochloric acid, or Freon liquid.

This is a continuation application of Ser. No. 620,098, filed June 13, 1984 (now U.S. Pat. No. 4,586,241), which in turn is a divisional application of Ser. No. 554,772, filed Nov. 23, 1983 (now U.S. Pat. No. 4,529,829).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to improvement in or relating to a photoelectric conversion device in which a number of semiconductor elements are sequentially arranged on a substrate in side-by-side relation and connected in series.

The invention also pertains to a method for the manufacture of such a photoelectric conversion device.

2. Description of the Prior Art

There has been proposed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,315,096 a photoelectric conversion device of the type wherein a plurality n (n being an integer greater than one) of semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) are sequentially formed side by side on a substrate having an insulating surface and are connected in series one to another.

According to this semiconductor photoelectric conversion device, the semiconductor element U_(i) (i=1, 2, . . . n) has a first electrode E_(i) formed on the substrate, a non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) formed on the first electrode E_(i) to form at least one semiconductor junction and a second electrode F_(i) formed on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) in opposing relation to the first electrode E_(i). The second electode F_(j+1) of the semiconductor element U_(j+1) (j=1, 2, . . . (n-1)) is coupled with the first electrode E_(j) of the semiconductor element U_(j) through a coupling portion K_(j) formed as an extension of the second electrode F_(j+1).

With such a semiconductor photoelectric conversion device, electrical loss resulting from the contact resistance between the coupling portion K_(j) and the first electrode E_(j) is an obstacle to enhancement of the photoelectric conversion efficiency. For reducing the electrical loss to raise the photoelectric conversion efficiency, it is necessary that the contact resistance between the coupling portion K_(j) and the electrode E_(j) be low and be not increased by long-term use.

In the abovesaid conventional photoelectric conversion device, however, no consideration is paid to designing the coupling portion K_(j) and the electrode E_(j) to prevent the contact resistance therebetween from being increased by long-term use. Accordingly, this prior art device possesses the defect that its long-term use will impair the photoelectric conversion efficiency.

Further, in the photoelectric conversion device mentioned above, the coupling portion K_(j) is shown to be coupled with the top surface of the first electrode E_(j). In this case, however, in order to obtain good contact between the coupling portion K_(j) and the first electrode E_(j), it is necessary that the area of the contact portion in the lateral direction be increased. But this makes it impossible to form the photoelectric conversion device with high density.

Moreover, in the photoelectric conversion device of the abovesaid U.S. patent, it is shown that the coupling portion K_(j) makes contact with the first electrode E_(j) only at the outer side thereof. In this case, the contact area between the coupling portion K_(j) and the first electrode E_(j) is extremely small, so that good contact cannot be obtained between them.

Therefore, the aforementioned prior art has the defect that a photoelectric conversion device with low electrical loss cannot be obtained with high density.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a novel photoelectric conversion device which is free from the abovesaid defects.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for the manufacture of the abovesaid photoelectric conversion device.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, as is the case with the photoelectric conversion device of the aforementioned U.S. patent, a plurality n of semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) are formed on a substrate having an insulating surface, and the semiconductor element U_(i) has a first electrode E_(i), a non-single-crystal semicondutor laminate member Q_(i) and a second electrode F_(i), and the second electrode F_(j+1) is disposed to make contact with the first electrode E_(j) through a coupling portion K_(j) formed by an extension of the second electode F_(j+1).

According to the present invention, however, the first electrode E_(i) has a first conductive metal oxide layer, and the second electrode F_(i) and the coupling portion K_(j) have a conductive second metal oxide layer and the seond metal oxide layer of the coupling portion K_(j) is coupled with the first metal oxide layer of the first electrode E_(j).

Since the first and second oxide layers are both formed of a metal oxide, even if the device is used for a long time, there would not practically occur such a reaction which leads to an increase in the contact resistance in the contact portion between them. Consequently, the contact resistance between the coupling portion K_(j) and the first electrode E_(j) is not raised by the long-term use and, accordingly, the electrical loss is not increased by long-term use.

Therefore, the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention maintains its high photoelectric conversion efficiency for a long period of time.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a groove O_(j) is formed in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) to extend between the second electrode F_(j+1) and the first electrode E_(j). The groove O_(j) extends into the first electrode E_(j), and the coupling portion K_(j) extends into such a groove O_(j) to make contact with the side of the first electrode E_(j) exposed to the groove O_(j).

Therefore, it is possible to obtain good contact between the coupling portion K_(j) and the first electrode E_(j) without increasing the area of the contact portion therebetween in the lateral direction.

Accordingly, a photoelectric conversion device which is small in electrical loss and hence is high in photoelectric conversion efficiency can be obtained with high density.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the groove O_(j) is formed in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) between the second electrode F_(j+1) and the first electrode E_(j) to extend into the first electrode E_(j) with a width smaller than in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j). The coupling portion K_(j) extends into such a groove O_(j) to make contact with the top and the side of the first electrode E_(j) exposed to the groove O_(j).

Therefore, it is possible to obtain good contact between the coupling portion K_(j) and the first electrode E_(j) without increasing the contact area therebetween in the lateral direction.

Accordingly, a photoelectric conversion device which is small in electrical loss and hence high in photoelectric conversion efficiency can be obtained with high density.

According to the manufacturing method of the present invention, the semiconductor elements are formed by a process including the following steps (a) to (d):

(a) A first conductive layer, which is a layered member having a conductive metal oxide layer and which will ultimately serve as a first electrode of each semiconductor element, is formed on the substrate and the first conductive layer is subjected to a first scanning by a laser beam, thereby providing the first electrode of each semiconductor element.

(b) A non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member which will ultimately serve as a non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member of each semiconductor element having formed therein at least one semiconductor junction is formed on the substrate in such a manner as to cover the first electrode of each semiconductor element, providing the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member thereof.

(c) The non-single-crystal semiconductor of the semiconductor elements are subjected to a second scanning by a laser beam, thereby cutting grooves therein to expose the first electrodes to the outside.

(d) A second conductive layer, which is a layerd member having a conductive metal oxide layer and which will ultimately serve as a second electrode of each semiconductor element is formed to extend on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members and in the grooves, and then the second conductive layer is subjected to a third scanning by a laser beam, thereby providing the second electrode of each semiconductor element.

According to the manufacturing method of the present invention including the abovesaid steps, since the coupling portion of the second electrode of each semiconductor element, formed by an extension of the second electrode itself, is connected with the first electrode of the immediately preceeding semiconductor element through a metal exide layer, excellent electrical coupling can be achieved between the second electrode of the former and the first electrode of the latter.

Accordingly, it is possible with the manufacturing method of the present invention to provide a photoelectric conversion device of high photoelectric conversion efficiency.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view schematically illustrating am embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view taken on the line II--II in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A to 3D are detailed cross-sectional views showing on an enlarged scale parts of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are detailed sectional views showing on an enlarged scale other parts of the embodiment of FIG. 1:

FIGS. 5A to 5G are cross-sectional views schematically showing a sequence steps involved in the manufacture of the photoelectric conversion device of the embodiment of the present invention depicted in FIGS. 1 to 4;

FIGS. 6A to 6D, 7A to 7E and 8 are schematic cross-sectional views, similar to FIG. 3, illustrating other embodiments of the present invention, respectively;

FIG. 9 is a plan view schematically illustrating another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken on the line X--X in FIG. 9;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are enlarged cross-sectional view showing a part of the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10; and

FIGS. 12A to 12H are schematic cross-sectional views showing a sequence of steps involved in the manufacture of the photoelectric conversion device depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A description will be given first, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, of an embodiment of the present invention.

The embodiment of the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 has a plurality n (n being an integer larger than one) of semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) formed side by side on a substrate 1.

The substrate 1 has an insulating surface 2.

The substrate 1 may be a light-transparent substrate made of glass, synthetic organic resin or the like, or a flexible sheet such as of synthetic organic resin. It is also possible to employ a non-light-transparent substrate of ceramics, organic resin or the like, a non-light-transparent metal substrate having its surface insulated, or a flexible, sheet-like member having an insulating film formed on the surface of a flexible metallic sheet. The substrate 1 is, for example, rectangular in shape and 20 cm wide and 60 cm long.

In the case of the substrate 1 being the abovesaid, flexible metallic sheet-like member, it is made, for instance, of aluminum or an aluminum-base alloy and has a thickness of, for example, 10 to 200 μm, preferably, 50 to 150 μm.

The insulating film formed on the surface of the flexible metallic sheet-like member is, for example, an oxide film resulting from oxidation of the surface of the sheet-like member. When the flexible metallic sheet-like member is made of aluminum or an aluminum-base alloy, the abovesaid oxide film is an aluminum oxide (alumina Al₂ O₃) or an insulating material consisting principally of aluminum oxide. The oxide film has a thickness small enough not to impair the flexibility of the flexible metallic sheet-like member, for instance, in the range of 0.1 to 2 μm, preferably 0.3 to 1 μm. Such an oxide film can be formed by heating the flexible metallic sheet-like member made of aluminum or the aluminum-base alloy.

The semiconductor element U_(i) (i=1, 2, . . . n) on the substrate 1 has an electrode E_(i) formed on the substrate 1, a non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) formed on the electrode E_(i) and an electrode F_(i) formed on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) in opposing relation to the electrode E_(i).

The electrode E_(i) is, for example, rectangular in shape and has a width of 5 to 40 mm, preferably 15 mm and a length slightly smaller than the width of the substrate 1.

Electrodes E_(j) (j=1, 2, . . .(n-1)) and E_(j+1) are spaced apart by a groove G_(j) which is shown to extend in the vertical direction in FIG. 1. The groove G_(j) is, for example, 40 μm wide.

The electrode E_(i) may be a single-layer structure as shown in FIG. 3A.

The electrode E_(i) may also be a two-layer structure which comprises a layer 4 making contact with the substrate 1 and a layer 5 formed on the layer 4 in contact with the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) as shown in FIGS. 3C and D. Also it is possible to employ a three-layer structure having another layer sandwiched between the layers 4 and 5 though not shown.

The electrode E_(i) may be a reflective electrode when the electrode F_(i) is light-transparent. When the electrode E_(i) is the reflective electrode, light incident on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) on the opposite side from the substrate 1 passes through the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i), then is reflected by the surface of the electrode E_(i) back to the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) to pass therethrough. The larger the optical path length of the reflected light in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is, the more the utilization efficiency of light is raised. From this point of view, it is preferable that the surface of the electrode E_(i) on the side of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) have irregularities oblique to planes perpendicular to the substrate surface to form a diffuse reflection surface 6 at the boundary between it and the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i).

In the case where the electrode E_(i) is reflective, it may be of a single-layer structure formed by a reflective conductive layer.

In this case, the layer may be one that is formed of aluminum or silicon, or consisting principally thereof. In the case where the electrode E_(i) is a reflective electrode and has the two-layer structure comprised of the layers 4 and 5, in order to simultaneously satisfy the requirements that the electrode E_(i) be of high conductivity and high reflectivity and to prevent that when the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is formed, the material of its non-single-crystal semiconductor layer on the side of the electrode E_(i) or an impurity contained therein reacts with the material of the reflective electrode to form a layer of high contact resistance in the interface between the electrode E_(i) and the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer Q_(i), it is preferable that the layer 4 be a reflective conductive layer and the layer 5 a light transparent metal oxide layer 5.

In the case where the layer 4 of the electrode E_(i) is a reflective conductive layer, it may preferably be made of metal. The metal may be stainless steel but, in view of the requirements of high conductivity and high reflectivity for the electrode E_(i), it is preferable to employ aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), an aluminum-base alloy containing, for example, 0.1 to 2 volume % of silicon, or a silver-base alloy.

When the layer 5 of the electrode E_(i) is a light-transparent metal oxide layer, in order to ensure that the layer 5 be high in conductivity and in transmittance and to prevent that when the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate layer Q_(i) is formed, the metallic oxide reacts with the material or impurity of the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode E_(i) to form the abovesaid high contact resistance layer, it is preferable to form the layer 5 of a tin oxide (SnO₂ or SnO) or a metallic oxide consisting principally of such a tin oxide, for instance, a tin oxide containing halogen or, 1 to 10 wt % of antimony oxide in the event that the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode E_(i) is p-type. In the case where the layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode E_(i) is N-type, it is preferable to use an indium oxide or a metallic oxide consisting principally of, for instance, an indium oxide containing 1 to 10 wt % of tin oxide. In this case, the light transparent conductive layer 5 is 300 to 600 A thick.

In the case where the electrode E_(i) is such a two-layer reflective electrode comprising the layer 4 and the layer 5, when the abovesaid diffuse reflection surface 6 is formed at the boundary between the electrode E_(i) and the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i), it is formed on the surface of the layer 5 on the side of the laminate member Q_(i).

In the case where the electrode E_(i) is comprised of the layers 4 and 5 these layers are a reflective conductive layer and a light-transparent conductive layer to form a reflective electrode, the surface of the layer 4 may also be formed as the diffuse reflection surface in the interface between it and the light-transparent conductive layer 5, through not shown.

When the substrate 1 is light-transparent, the electrode E_(i) is formed as a light-transparent electrode.

In such a case, the light-transparent electrode may be a metal oxide layer.

Where the electrode E_(i) is a single-layer light-transparent electrode, when the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode E_(i) is P-type, the electrode E_(i) may preferably be of a tin oxide or consisting principally thereof for the same reasons as given previously.

When the abovesaid non-single-crystal semiconductor layer is N-type, the electrode E_(i) may preferably be a metal oxide layer formed of an indium oxide or consisting principally thereof.

In the case where the electrode E_(i) has the two-layer structure comprised of the layers 4 and 5 and is light-transparent, if the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode E_(i) is P-type, it is preferable that the layer 5 be a metal oxide layer formed of a tin oxide or consisting principally thereof and the layer 4 a metal oxide layer formed of an indium oxide or consisting principally thereof.

When the electrode F_(i) is light-transparent, the electrode E_(i) need not always be reflective. In this case, if the electrode E_(i) is single-layer, it may be a layer formed of chromium or consisting principally thereof. Moreover, in the case of the two-layer structure, the layer 4 may be the abovesaid metal oxide layer and the layer 5 may be layer formed of chromium or consisting principally thereof.

In the semiconductor element U_(i) formed on the substrate 1, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j+1) (j=1, 2, . . . (n-1)) on the aforesaid electrode E_(j+1) extends laterally from the marginal edge of the electrode E_(j+1) on the opposite side from the electrode E_(j) to a position on the electrode E_(j) on the side of the electrode E_(j+1) across the groove G_(j) separating the electrode E_(j) and E_(j+1) making contact with the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j).

The non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₁ formed on the electrode E₁ extends laterally onto the substrate 1 to cover the side surface of the electrode E₁ on the opposite side from the electrode E₂.

Further, laminate member Q_(n) is formed as a non-single-crystal-semiconductor laminate member Q₀ to laterally extend onto the substrate 1 to cover the side surface of the electrode E_(n) on the opposite side from the electrode E_(n-1).

The non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is formed to vertically extend to cover the electrode E_(i). The non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) has cut therein a groove O_(i) which is shown to extend in the vertical direction in FIG. 1. The grooves O₁ to O_(n) are formed simultaneously.

The non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) formed on the electrode E_(i) may be formed by one or more such two-layer structures, each composed of a P-type or N-type non-single-crystal semiconductor layer and another non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the opposite conductivity type.

Accordingly, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) can be formed to have at least one PN junction.

Furthermore, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) may preferably be formed by one or more three-layer structures, each composed of a P-type or N-type non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 8, an I-type non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 9 and a non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 10 opposite in conductivity type to the layer 8 as shown in FIG. 3. Accordingly, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) may preferably be formed to have at least one PIN junction.

The non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode E_(i) is P-type when the layer of the electrode E_(i) making contact with the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is formed by a tin oxide or metallic oxide consisting principally of the tin oxide as described previously with respect to FIG. 3. When the layer 5 of the electrode E_(i) making contact with the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is formed by an indium oxide or metallic oxide consisting principally of indium oxide, the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode E_(i) is N-type.

Accordingly, in the case where the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) has the three-layer structure comprising the non-single-crystal semiconductor layers 8, 9 and 10 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and the layer of the electrode E_(i) semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is formed by a tin oxide or metallic oxide consisting principally of tin oxide, the non-single-crystal semiconductor layers 8 and 10 are P-type and N-type, respectively. When the light transparent conductive layer 5 is formed by an indium oxide or metal oxide consisting principally of indium oxide, the non-single-crystal semiconductor layers 8 and 10 are N-type and P-type, respectively.

The non-single-crystal semiconductor layers making up the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) may preferably be formed of silicon or a semiconductor consisting principally of silicon but it may also be formed of other semiconductors.

When the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) has the three-layer structure composed of the non-single-crystal semiconductor layers 8, 9, and 10, the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 8 may be formed, for instance, of silicon to a thickness of 5 to 300 A, preferably 70 to 130 A. Where the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 8 is P-type, for example, boron (B) may be introduced thereinto as a P-type impurity.

The non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 9 can be formed of silicon as is the case with the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 8 but its thickness may preferably be larger than that of the layer 8, for instance, 0.4 to 0.7 μm. The non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 9 contains a very small amount of a P-type impurity or does not substantially contain either of P-type and N-type impurities and, if any, their concentrations are negligibly low.

The non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 10 can also be formed of silicon as is the case with the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 8. But since the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 10 is disposed on the side where the light to be converted is incident on the semiconductor element, it may preferably be formed of a semiconductor which has a larger energy band gap than does the semiconductor material of the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 8, such as, for example, silicon carbide expressed by Si_(x) C_(1-x) (0<x<1). In this case, the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 10 can be formed to a thickness of 5 to 300 A, typically, in the range of 7 to 130 A.

Incidentally, the aforesaid non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₀ has the same structure as the aforementioned one Q_(i).

In the semiconductor element U_(i) formed on the substrate 1, the electrode F_(i) on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is disposed opposite to the electrode E_(i) formed on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i).

In this case, the electrode F_(j+1) extends from a position apart from the isolated end portion of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j+1) on the opposite side from the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) onto its isolated end portion on the side of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j+1).

The electrode F_(i) extends from a position away from the isolated end portion of the non-single-crystal laminate member Q₁ on the side of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₂ to the marginal edge of the substrate 1 to cover the extension of the non-single-crystal laminate member Q₁ on the side surface of the electrode E₁.

On the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(n), an electrode F₀ similar to the electrode F_(n) is formed to extend from the isolated end portion on the side of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₀ to the marginal edge of the substrate 1 to cover the side surface of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₀.

The electrodes F_(j) and F_(j+1) are isolated by an isolating portion H_(j). The electrodes F_(j+1) and F₀ are also isolated by an isolating portion H_(n). The isolating portions H_(i) may be simultaneously formed as grooves as is the case with the grooves G_(i).

The electrode F_(i) may be formed as a single layer as shown in FIG. 3 and may also be of the two-layer structure comprised of a layer 21 making contact with the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) and a layer 22 formed on the layer 21 as illustrated in FIGS. 3B, 3D, and 7. Also it is possible to employ such a three-layer structure as depicted in FIG. 8 which comprises the layers 21 and 22 and another layer 23 formed on the layer 2.

The electrode F_(i) may be a transparent conductive layer. When the electrode F_(i) is a transparent single layer, it may be formed of a metallic oxide. In this case, it is required that the metal oxide be high in conductivity and in transmittance and, when forming the electrode F_(i), would not react with the material or impurity of the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode F_(i) to form a layer which increases the contact resistance between the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) and the electrode F_(i) or a layer of low transmittance. To meet such requirements, when the non-single-crystal layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) on the side of the electrode F_(i) is N-type, the electrode F_(i) may preferably be formed of an indium oxide or other metallic oxide consisting principally of indium oxide, such as, for example, an indium oxide containing 1 to 10 wt % of tin oxide. When the non-single-crystal layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor to laminate layer Q_(i) on the side of the electrode F_(i) is P-type, the electrode F_(i) may preferably be formed of a tin oxide or other metallic oxide consisting principally of tin oxide. The electrode F_(i) can be formed, for instance, 300 to 600 A thick.

In the case where the electrode F_(i) is transparent and has the two-layer structure composed of the layers 21 and 22, the layer 21 making contact with the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) may preferably be a layer formed of tin oxide or consisting principally thereof, or a layer formed of indium oxide or consisting principally thereof as described previously, depending on whether the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is P-type or N-type. In this case, it is preferable that when the layer 21 is the layer formed of tin oxide or consisting principally thereof, the layer 22 be formed of indium oxide or consisting principally thereof and, when the layer 21 is formed of indium oxide or consisting principally thereof, the layer 22 be formed of tin oxide or consisting principally thereof.

The electrode F_(i) may be a reflective one when the substrate 1 and the electrode E_(i) are light-transparent. When the electrode F_(i) is the reflective electrode, it is possible to employ the two-layer structure comprising the layers 21 and 22, the three-layer structure comprising the layers 21, 22 and 23 or further multi-layer structure in addition to the single-layer structure as described previously.

Where the electrode F_(i) is the two-layer structure made up of the layers 21 and 22, it is preferred that depending on whether the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) contacting the layer 21 is P-type or N-type, the layer 21 be a layer formed of tin oxide or consisting principally thereof or a layer formed of indium oxide or consisting principally thereof and the layer 22 be a reflective conductive layer as of silver or aluminum, as described previously.

When the electrode F_(i) has the three-layer structure composed of the layers 21, 22, and 23, it is preferable that the layers 21 and 22 be such layers as mentioned above and the layer 23 a nickel layer.

The electrode F_(i) need not always be reflective even if the substrate 1 and the electrode E_(i) are light-transparent. In such a case, if the electrode has the two-layer structure comprised of the layers 21 and 22, it is preferred that the layer 21 be such a layer as mentioned above and the layer 22 a sublimable conductive layer formed of chromium or consisting principally thereof.

The electrode F₀ formed to extend on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₀ has the same structure as the abovesaid electrode F_(i).

The electrode F_(j+1) of the semiconductor element U_(j+1) (j=1, 2, . . . (n-1)) is coupled with the electrode E_(j) of the semiconductor element U_(j) through a coupling portion K_(j).

The coupling portion K_(j) extends from the position where the electrode F_(j+1) is opposite to the electrode E_(j) to the region of the electrode E_(j) opposite to the electrode F_(j+1), passing through a groove O_(j) by which the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q_(j) and Q_(j+1) are separated. Such a coupling portion K_(j) is formed by an extension of the electrode F_(j+1) formed simultaneously with the electrode F_(j+1).

The electrode F₁ of the semiconductor element U₁ extends down to the surface of the substrate 1 as referred to previously and the extension constitutes an external connection terminal 11.

The electrode F₀ extending on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₀ is coupled with the electrode E_(n) of the semiconductor element U_(n) through a coupling portion K_(n). In this case, the coupling portion K_(n) extends from the position where the electrode F₀ is opposite to the electrode E_(n) to the region of the electrode E_(n) opposite to the electrode F₀, passing through a groove O_(n). Such a coupling portion K_(n) is an extension of the electrode F₀ formed simultaneously therewith. The electrode F₀ extends on the side surface of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₀ in the direction reverse from the electrode F_(n) to the marginal edge of the substrate 1, and the extending end portion forms a terminal 12 for external connection.

The isolated portion H_(j) is formed to extend in the vertical direction in FIG. 1 to go down into the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) to form therein a region 13 underlying the electrode E_(j+1). The groove O_(j) also extends across that portion of the electrode E_(j) adjacent to the electrode E_(j+1) in the thickwise direction. Accordingly, the electrode E_(j) has an isolated portion 14 on the side of the electrode E_(j+1).

The isolated portion H_(n) is formed to extend in the vertical direction in FIG. 1 to go down into the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(n) to form therein the region 13 underlying the electrode F₀.

The groove O_(n) extends across that portion of the electrode E_(n) opposite side from the electrode F₀ in the thickwise direction. Accordingly, the electrode E_(n) has the isolated region 14 on the opposite side from the electrode E_(n-1).

On the substrate 1 is formed a transparent antireflection and protective film 15 to cover the aforesaid semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n). In this case, however, the antireflection and protective film 15 does not extend on the extended portions of the electrodes F₁ and F₀ forming the aforementioned external connection terminals 11 and 12, respectively.

The foregoing is a description of the arrangement of an embodiment of the photoelectric conversion device according to the present invention.

Next, a description will be given, with reference to FIGS. 5A to G, of an embodiment of the photoelectric conversion device manufacturing method of the present invention.

In FIGS. 5A to G, parts corresponding to those in FIGS. 1 and 2 are identified by the same reference numerals and characters and no detailed description thereof will be repeated.

The manufacturing method of the photoelectric conversion device shown in FIGS. 5A to G is as follows:

The manufacture starts with the preparation of such a substrate 1 as described previously with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2.

Then, as shown in FIG. 5B, the conductive layer 41 which will ultimately form the electrodes E₁ to E_(n) described previously in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 is formed by a known method on the substrate 1.

In the case where the electrodes E₁ to E_(n) are each formed to have the two-layer structure composed of the two layers 4 and 5 as described previously with regard to FIG. 3, the conductive layer 41 is made up of a layer which will ultimately serve as the layer 4 and another layer which ultimately serve as the layer 5, though neither shown nor described in detail. The former layer is first formed on the substrate 1 by a known method, for example, vapor deposition and then the latter layer is similarly formed thereon by a known method, for instance, vapor deposition. Next, the conductive layer 41 is scanned by a laser beam (not shown) having a diameter of 30 to 70 μm, typically, 40 μm, by which the aforementioned (n-1) grooves G_(i) to G_(n-1) are cut in the conductive layer 41 to form n electrodes E₁ to E_(n) which are separated from adjacent ones of them by the grooves G₁ to G_(n-1), as shown in FIG. 5C. For this scanning, it is possible to employ a laser beam of a 1.06 μm wavelength from a YAG laser and a laser beam of a 0.488 or 0.512 μm wavelength from an argon laser.

The abovesaid laser beam scanning can be carried out in the air but may also be performed in the atmosphere of a gas which reacts with the conductive material of the layer 41 at high temperatures to sputter it from the substrate surface. In this case, the gas used may be hydrogen fluride (HF), hydrogen chloride (HCl), or Freon gas, CF₄, CHF₃, CClF₃ or like gas. In the case where the laser beam scanning takes place in the air, burrs are likely to form on the upper marginal edges of the groove G_(j). Accordingly, it is desirable that the laser beam scanning be followed by deburring through the use of the abovesaid gas or etching with an etchant such as hydrofluoric acid (HF), hydrochloric acid (HCl), or Freon liquids (C₂ F₃ Cl₃) or similar liquids. Moreover, it is possible to accomplish the laser beam scanning of the conductive layer 41 easily and accurately by the aid of a computer while monitoring through a video camera device.

Next, a non-single-crystal semiconductor layer 42 is formed by a known method, for example, low-pressure CVD on the substrate 1 to fill the grooves G₁ to G_(n-1) and to cover the electrode E₁ to E_(n) as shown in FIG. 5D so that the regions of the layer 42 on the electrodes E₁ to E_(n) may be the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n) described previously in respect of FIGS. 1 and 2.

Where the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n) are each formed as the three-layer structure consisting of the non-single-crystal semiconductor layers 8, 9 and 10 as described previously with regard to FIG. 3, non-single-crystal semiconductor layers which will ultimately be used as the non-single-crystal layers 8, 9 and 10 respectively, are formed in this order through the use of a known method, for instance, the low-pressure CVD method, thereby providing the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member 42.

After this, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n) are selectively removed by laser beam scanning to cut therein the aforementioned n grooves O₁ to O_(n) as shown in FIG. 5E. In this case, the groove O_(i) (i=1, 2, . . . n) can be formed to extend down to the insulating film 2 of the substrate 1 across the electrode E_(i) as illustrated. In such a case, the region 14 of the electrode E_(i) is isolated from the other regions. The laser beam scanning of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n) can take place in the air as is the case with the conductive layer 41. It is also possible to carry out the laser beam scanning in the atmosphere of a gas which reacts with the materials of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member 42 and the electrodes E₁ to E_(n) at high temperatures to sputter them from the substrate surface. Also in this case, the gas used is the aforesaid gases. In the case where the laser beam scanning of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n) is carried out in the air, it is desirable that the laser beam scanning be followed by deburring through the use of the aforesaid gas or etching with such etchants as mentioned previously. The abovesaid laser beam scanning can also be performed easily and accurately by the aid of a computer while monitoring through the video camera device.

The groove O_(j) (j=1, 2, . . . (n-1)) is formed at a position spaced a predetermined distance apart from the groove G_(j) laterally thereof (on the left thereof in FIG. 5). The abovesaid predetermined distance is large as compared with the thickness of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member 42. It is preferable, however, to minimize this distance. By the aid of a computer the groove O_(j) can be provided in close proximity to the groove G_(j) with high accuracy. This permits reduction of the area of the substrate 1 occupied by the region 14 of the electrode E_(j). It is desirable that the groove O_(n) be formed closely to the marginal edge of the electrode E_(n) on the opposite side from the electrode E_(n-1) so that the region 14 of the electrode E_(n) may occupy minimum area of the substrate.

Next, a conductive layer 43, which will ultimately form the electrodes F₁ to F_(n) and F₀ referred to in respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, is formed, for example, by vapor deposition on the substrate 1 to cover the non-single-crystal semiconductor liminate members Q₁ to Q_(n) and to fill the grooves O₁ to O_(n), forming coupling portions K₁ to K_(n). In this case, the conductive layer 43 is formed to extend on the substrate 1 except for both marginal portions in its widthwise direction but it covers both marginal portions of the substrate 1 in its lengthwise direction.

Next, the conductive layer 43 is selectively removed by laser beam scanning as is the case with the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n). By this laser beam scanning there are formed in the conductive layer 43 n isolating portions H₁ to H_(n), n electrodes F₁ to F_(n) separated by the isolating portions H₁ to H_(n-1), respectively, and opposite to the electrodes E₁ to E_(n) across the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n), respectively, and an electrode F₀ isolated by the isolating portion H_(n) from the electrode F_(n) and opposite to electrode E_(n). In this case, the laser beam scanning is carried out so that the electrode F_(j+1) may be linked with the electrode E_(j) through the coupling portion K_(j) and so that the electrode F₀ may be linked with the electrode E_(n) through the coupling portion K_(n).

By the abovesaid laser beam scanning, the isolating portion H_(i) (i=1, 2, . . . n) can be formed to extend into the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i).

As is the case with the conductive layer 41, the laser beam scanning of the conductive layer 43 can be effected in the air and may also be carried out in the atmosphere of a gas which reacts with the materials of the conductive layer 43 and the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n) at high temperatures to sputter them from the substrate surface. The gas used in this case may be the aforesaid gases.

Also in the case of performing the laser beam scanning of the conductive layer 43 in the air, it is desirable that the laser beam scanning be followed by deburring through the use of the aforesaid gas or etching using the aforesaid liquid as the etchant.

By the laser beam scanning for the conductive layer 43, the isolating portion H_(i) can be provided in the form of a groove as illustrated.

The laser beam scanning of the conductive layer 43 can also be carried out easily and accurately by the aid of a computer while monitoring through a video camera device.

Further, the isolating portion H_(i) is formed a predetermined distance apart from the groove O_(i) laterally thereof (on the left thereof in the drawing). The abovesaid predetermined distance is large as compared with the thickness of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member 43, but it may preferably be selected as small as possible. By the aid of a computer, the isolating portion H_(i) can be formed in close proximity to the groove O_(i) with high precision. This allows reduction of the area of the substrate 1 occupied by the region 13 formed in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i).

Next, a transparent antireflection and protective film 15 is formed by a known method on the substrate to cover the electrodes F₁ to F_(n) and F₀ and the isolating portion H₁ as shown in FIG. 2.

In the manner described above, the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, is manufactured.

The above is a description of an embodiment of the present invention and an example of its manufacturing method.

According to the photoelectric conversion device of FIGS. 1 and 2, when light (not shown) is incident thereon from the side of the substrate 1 or the electrodes F₁ to F_(n) each semiconductor element U_(i) (i=1, 2, . . . n) carries out photoelectric conversion to generate photovoltage across its electrodes E_(i) and F_(i).

The electrode F_(j+1) (j=1, 2, . . . (n-1)) of the semiconductor element U_(j+1) is linked with the electrode E_(j) of the semiconductor element U_(j) through the coupling portion K_(j) and the electrode F₁ of the semiconductor element U₁ is connected to an external connection terminal 11 and the electrode E_(n) of the semiconductor element U_(n) is connected to an external connection terminal 12 through the coupling portion K_(n) and the electrode F₀.

Accordingly, the semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) are sequentially connected in series through the coupling portions K₁ to K_(n-1) and connected to the external connection terminals 11 and 12. Consequently, upon incidence of light, there is developed across the external connection terminals 11 and 12 the photovoltage that is equal to the sum of voltages produced by the semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n).

In addition, by forming the electrodes E_(i) and F_(i) of the semiconductor element U_(i) as the reflective electrodes as described previously with respect to FIG. 3, incident light can efficiently be utilized by the semiconductor element U_(i), providing for increased photovoltage per unit area of the substrate 1.

Besides, in the case where the layer of the electrode E_(i) contacting the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is formed as the aforesaid metal oxide layer, an excellent ohmic contact can be made between the electrode E_(i) and the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i), so that high photovoltage can be obtained from the semiconductor element U_(i) with practically no loss.

These features can be made more marked if the layer of the electrode E_(i) contacting the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is formed of a tin oxide or a metallic oxide consisting principally thereof, or an indium oxide or a metallic oxide consisting principally thereof, depending on whether the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) contacting the electrode E_(i) is P-type or N-type.

Where the groove O_(j) cut in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) is extended into the electrode E_(j) as illustrated, the coupling portion K_(j) extending from the electrode F_(j+1) makes side-contact with the electrode E_(j) and hence makes good ohmic contact therewith, ensuring the obtainment of large electromotive force across the external connection terminals 11 and 12 with no appreciable loss. This is more marked when the coupling portion K_(j) and the electrode E_(j) are linked with each other through their metal oxide layers.

Since the isolating portion H_(j) is formed to extend into the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) as illustrated, substantially no leakage occurs through the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q_(j) between the electrode E_(j) and F_(j+1), ensuring the obtainment of large electromotive force across the external connection terminals 11 and 12.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₁ of the semiconductor element U₁ is formed on the electrode E₁ to extend onto the substrate 1 on the side surface of the electrode E₁ on the opposite side from the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₂, and the electrode F₁ is formed on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₁ to extend onto the substrate 1 on the side surface and the extended portion is used as the external connection terminal 11. With such an arrangement, the series circuit of the semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) can easily be connected at one end to the external connection terminal 11. This permits simplification of the construction of photoelectric conversion device as a whole.

Further, in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(n) is formed to extend on the side surface of the electrode E_(n) on the opposite side from the electrode E_(n-1) towards the substrate 1. The electrode F₀ is formed on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(n) to extend to the substrate surface and the electrode F₀ is coupled with the electrode E_(n) through the coupling portion K_(n). And the extended portion of the electrode F₀ on the substrate 1 is used as the external connection terminal 12. Accordingly, the series circuit of the semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) cab easily be connected at one end to the external connection terminal 12, permitting simplification of the overall structure of the photoelectric conversion device.

A description will now be given of other embodiments of the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention.

In the embodiment of the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention depicted in FIGS. 1 to 3, the groove O_(j) extends completely through the electrode E_(j) to reach the substrate 1, and the coupling portion K_(j) makes contact only with the side of the electrode E_(j) exposed by the groove O_(j).

In other embodiment of the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, however, as shown in FIG. 6A, the groove O_(j) is not extended into the electrode E_(j) and the coupling portion K_(j) is formed to make contact only with the top of the electrode E_(j) exposed by the groove O_(j).

Further, as shown in FIG. 6B, the width of the groove O_(j) in the electrode E_(j) is made smaller than in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) and the coupling portion K_(j) is formed to make contact with the top and side of the electrode E_(j) exposed by the groove O_(j).

Moreover, according to another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6C, the groove O_(j) is extended into the substrate 1 with a greater width than in the electrode E_(j), and the coupling portion K_(j) is formed to make contact with the side and bottom of the electrode E_(j) exposed by the groove O_(j).

According to another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6D, the groove O_(j) is extended across the electrode E_(j) as in the case of FIG. 6B and into the substrate 1 as in the case of FIG. 6C, and the coupling portion K_(j) is formed to make contact with the top, side and bottom of the electrode E_(j) exposed by the groove O_(j).

In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 6A to D, the groove O_(j) can easily be formed by the same laser beam scanning as that for the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) described previously with respect to FIG. 5 but, in this case, the intensity of the laser beam is adjusted suitably.

It will be seen that any of the structures of the embodiments provided with the grooves shown in FIGS. 6A to D possesses the same advantages as are obtainable with the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3, though not described in detail.

In the embodiment of the photoelectric conversion device shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the electrodes F_(j) and F_(j+1) of the semiconductor elements U_(j) and U_(j+1) are isolated by the isolating portion provided in the form of a groove and the isolating portion H_(j) extends into the non single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i). The embodiment of FIG. 7B corresponding to FIG. 3 is identical in construction to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 except that the isolating portion H_(j) extends completely through the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i). Such isolating portions H₁ to H_(n) can easily be formed by adjusting the scanning speed and/or power of the laser beam in the laser beam scanning for the conductive layer 43 described previously in connection with FIG. 5.

Further, the embodiment of FIG. 7C corresponding to the FIG. 3 photoelectric conversion device of the present invention is identical in construction to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 except that the isolating portion H_(j) consists of the groove 16 defined between the electrodes F_(j) and F_(j+1) and the oxide 17 of the non-single-crystal semiconductor forming the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j), which is formed in the upper half portion thereof.

Such isolating portions H₁ to H_(n) can easily be formed by carrying out in an oxygen atmosphere the laser beam scanning for the conductive layer 43 described previously with respect to FIG. 5.

Likewise, the embodiment of FIG. 7D is identical in construction to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 except that the isolating portion H_(j) is formed by an oxide 18 which results from oxidation of the conductive material forming the electrodes F_(j) and F_(j+1) and separates them as shown. Such isolating portions H₁ to H_(n) can easily be formed by the same laser beam scanning as that employed for the third embodiment of FIG. 7C.

The embodiment of FIG. 7A is also identical in construction to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 except that the isolating portion H_(j) is formed by the groove 16 which barely extends into the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) but separates the electrodes E_(j) and E_(j+1) as shown. Such isolating portion H₁ to H_(N) can easily be formed by adjusting the scanning speed and/or power of the laser beam in the laser beam scanning as in the embodiment of FIG. 5.

The embodiment of FIG. 7E is identical in construction to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 except that the isolating portion H_(j) has such a structure that an oxide layer is formed on the interior surface of the groove described previously with respect to FIG. 3.

Such an isolating portion H_(j) can easily be formed by performing the laser beam scanning for the conductive layer 43 mentioned previously with regard to FIG. 5 in an oxygen atmosphere as in the embodiment of FIG. 7D.

It is evident that all the arrangements of the embodiments having the isolating portions H₁ to H_(n), shown in FIGS. 7A to E, have the same features as those of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3, though not described in detail.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3, the series circuit of the semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) constituting one photoelectric conversion device on the substrate 1 is connected at one end to the external connection terminal 11, which is formed by the extended portion of the electrode E₁ of the semiconductor element U₁ on the substrate 1, and connected at the other end to the external connection terminal 12 which is formed by the extended portion of the electrode F₀ on the substrate 1 and connected to the electrode E_(n) through the coupling portion K_(n).

In another embodiment of the present invention, however, a plurality a×b of such photoelectric conversion devices, each made up of the n semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) connected in series as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, are arranged in the form of a matrix consisting of a rows and b columns as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 corresponding to FIGS. 1 and 2. In FIGS. 9 and 10 reference character M_(rs) (r=1, 2, . . . a and s=1, 2, . . . b) indicates each photoelectric conversion device disposed at one of the intersections of rows and columns. The photoelectric conversion devices M₁₁ to M_(1b), M₂₁ to M_(2b), . . . and M_(a1) to M_(ab) are isolated by grooves 26 between adjacent devices.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the photoelectric conversion device M_(rs) is identical in construction with the photoelectric conversion device of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 except in the following points:

As shown in FIG. 11A, an electrode E₀ similar to the electrodes E₁ to E_(n) is formed on the substrate 1 but spaced from the electrode E₁ by a groove G₀ similar to those G₁ to G_(n-1).

Further, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₁ of the semiconductor element U₁ extends across the groove G₀ to the marginal edge of the electrode E₀.

The electrode F₁ of the semiconductor element U₁, which is formed to cover the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₁ and extend to the substrate 1 in the first embodiment, is formed to extend only to the marginal edge of the corresponding non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₁. And the external connection terminal 11 is formed by the end portion of the electrode F₁ on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q₁ on the opposite side from the electrode F₂.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 11B, the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(n) of the semiconductor element U_(n) is formed to extend to the marginal edge of the electrode E_(n).

The electrode F₀, though formed to cover the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(n) and to extend to the substrate 1 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3, extends to the marginal edge of the corresponding non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(n). And the external connection terminal 12 is formed by the end portion of the electrode F₀ on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(n) on the opposite side from the electrode F_(n).

The above is a description of the abovesaid another embodiment of the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention.

The photoelectric conversion device of such a construction can be obtained by a manufacturing method similar to that employed for the fabrication of the photoelectric conversion device of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3.

That is, as shown in FIGS. 12A to G corresponding to FIGS. 5A to G, a×b photoelectric conversion devices M₁₁ to M_(1b), M₂₁ to M_(2b), . . . and M_(a1) to M_(ab) are formed on the substrate 1 by a sequence of steps similar to those shown in FIGS. 5A to G, though not described in detail. Next, as shown in FIG. 12H, the grooves 26 are formed by the same laser beam scanning as described previously in respect of FIG. 4.

Next, the light transparent antireflection and protective film 15 (not shown) is formed.

In this way, the structure of the embodiment referred to previously in conjunction with FIGS. 9 and 10 is obtained.

The above is a description of the abovesaid another embodiment and its manufacturing method.

The photoelectric conversion device of FIGS. 9 and 10 is identical in construction to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 except in the abovesaid points, and hence presents the same advantages as those obtainable with the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 4, though not described in detail.

Moreover, according to the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10, the photoelectric conversion devices M₁₁ to M_(1b), M₂₁ to M_(2b), . . . and M_(a1) to M_(ab) are formed on the substrate 1 and separated by the grooves 26. If the substrate 1 is formed of a flexible, insulating sheet-like member, it can easily be severed at the positions of the grooves 26 into a×b independent photoelectric conversion devices.

Incidentally, the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10 can also be modified and varied in the same manner as in the second to ninth embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 8 which are modifications and variations of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 4.

While in the foregoing embodiments of the present invention the groove O_(j) formed in each of the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q_(j) is shown to be a groove which continuously extends in the vertical direction to completely isolate the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate memers Q_(j) and Q_(j+1) mechanically, the groove O_(j) may also be formed to discontinuously extend in the vertical direction so that the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q_(j) and Q_(j+1) may not completely be isolated by the groove O_(j) from each other.

It will be apparent that may modifications and variations may be effected without departing from the scope of the novel concepts of the present invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device in which a plurality n (where n is an integer layer than 2) of semiconductor elements U₁ to U_(n) are sequentially formed side by side on a substrate having an insulating surface and connected in series one after another, the semiconductor element U_(i) (i=1, 1, . . . n) comprising a first electrode E_(i) and a second electrode F_(i) on a non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(i), the second electrode F_(j+1) (j=1,2, . . . (n-1) being connected via a coupling portion K_(j) to the first electrode E_(j), comprising the steps of:forming on the substrate sequentially arranged first electrodes E₁ to E_(n) ; forming on the substrate a non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate layer having formed therein at least one semiconductor junction to cover the first electrodes E₁ to E_(n) ; forming (n-1) sequentially arranged grooves O₁ to O_(n-1) in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate layer to form n sequentially arranged non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n) extending on the first electrodes E₁ to E_(n), respectively, and to expose the first electrodes E₁ to E_(n-1) to the outside through the grooves O₁ to O_(n-1), respectively; forming a conductive layer which continuously extends on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n-1) to provide coupling portions K₁ to K_(n-1) which are connected to the first electrode E₁ to E_(n-1) through the grooves O₁ to O_(n-1), respectively; forming (n-1) sequentially arranged isolating grooves H₁ to H_(n-1) in at least the conductive layer by using a laser beam to form n sequentially arranged second electrodes F₁ to F_(n) separated by the isolating grooves H₁ to H_(n-1) and opposing the first electrodes E₁ to E_(n) through the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate members Q₁ to Q_(n), respectively, the second electrodes F_(j-1) (j=1, 2, . . . (n-1)) being connected to the first electrodes E_(j) through the coupling portions K_(j) ; following the formation of the isolating grooves H₁ to H_(n-1) with a debburing or an etch using a gas or liquid.
 2. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the first electrodes E₁ to E_(n) are provided by forming (n-1) sequentially arranged grooves G₁ to G_(n-1) in a conductive layer on the substrate by using a laser beam.
 3. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 2, wherein the formation of the grooves G₁ to G_(n-1) is carried out in the air.
 4. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 3, wherein the formation of the grooves G₁ to G_(n-1) is followed by an etch using a gas comprising hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride or a Freon gas, or a liquid comprising hydrofluoric acid, hydrochloric acid or a Freon liquid.
 5. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the grooves O₁ to O_(n-1) are formed by using a laser beam.
 6. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 5, wherein the formation of the grooves O₁ to O_(n-1) is carried out in the air.
 7. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 6, wherein the formation of the grooves O₁ to O_(n-1) is followed by an etch using a gas comprising hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride or a Freon gas, or a liquid comprising hydrofluoric acid, hydrochloric acid or a Freon liquid.
 8. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the second groove O_(j) is formed to extend into the first electrode E_(j) so that the coupling portion K_(j) may be connected with the side of the first electrode E_(j) which is exposed by the groove O_(j).
 9. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the second groove O_(j) is formed to extend into the first electrode E_(j) with a smaller width than in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) so that the coupling portion K_(j) may be connected with the top and side of the first electrode E_(j) which are exposed by the second groove O_(j).
 10. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the second groove O_(j) is formed to extend into the substrate and through the first electrode E_(j) with a greater width than in the first electrode E_(j) so that the coupling portion K_(j) may be connected with the side and bottom of the first electrode E_(j) which are exposed by the second groove O_(j).
 11. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the second groove O_(j) is formed to extend into the substrate and through the first electrode E_(j) with a width smaller than in the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j) but greater than in the first electrode E_(j) so that the coupling portion K_(j) may be connected with the top, side and bottom the first electrode E_(j) which are exposed by the second groove O_(j).
 12. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the formation of the isolating grooves H₁ to H_(n-1) is carried out in the air.
 13. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 12, wherein the formation of the isolating grooves H₁ to H_(n-1) is followed by an etch using a gas comprising hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen chloride or a Freon gas, or a liquid comprising hydrofluoric acid, hydrochloric acid or a Freon liquid.
 14. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the formation of the isolating grooves H₁ to H_(n-1) is carried out in an atmosphere of oxygen.
 15. A method of making a photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the formation of the isolating grooves H₁ to H_(n-1) is performed so that the isolating grooves H_(j) (j=1, 2, 3, . . . (n-1)) may extend into the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member Q_(j).
 16. A method as in claim 1 where said first electrodes E₁ to E_(n) are single-layer structures.
 17. A method as in claim 16 where said single-layer structures each is formed of aluminum or an aluminum silicon alloy or consisting principally thereof.
 18. The method as in claim 16 where said single-layer structure is formed by a reflective conductive layer.
 19. A method as in claim 1 where each of the first electrodes E₁ to E_(n) is a multi-layer structure.
 20. A method as in claim 19 where each multi-layer structure is a two-layer structure.
 21. A method as in claim 20 where the layer of said two-layer structure contacting said substrate is a reflective conductive layer and the remaining layer contacting the semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is a light-transparent metal oxide layer.
 22. A method as in claim 21 where said reflective conductive layer is made of metal.
 23. A method as in claim 22 where said metal is selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, silver, an aluminum-based alloy containing 0.1 to 2 volume percent of silicon, and a silver-base alloy.
 24. A method as in claim 21 where said semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is p-type and where said light-transparent metal oxide layer is tin oxide or a metallic oxide consisting principally of tin oxide.
 25. A method as in claim 21 where said semiconductor laminate Q_(i) is n-type and where light-transparent metal oxide layer is indium oxide or a metallic oxide consisting principally of indium oxide.
 26. A method as in claim 1 where the electrode F_(i) is light transparent and the electrode E_(i) is not reflective.
 27. A method as in claim 26 where said electrode E_(i) is a single-layer structure.
 28. The method as claim 27 where said single layer is formed of chromium or consists principally thereof.
 29. A method as in claim 26 where said electrode E_(i) has a two-layer structure.
 30. A method as in claim 29 where the one of said two layers that contacts the substrate is formed of chromium or consists principally thereof and the layer which contacts semiconductor laminate member Q_(i) is a metal oxide layer. 